28-year-old Owen Makori from Tabaka village in Kisii earns a living from selling soapstone sculptures.
The father of two started his curio shop eight years ago after completing his high school education, as he lacked funds to further his education.“I joined the business of curving soapstone into various statues for sale which is very popular in Kisii in order to earn a living,” said Makori.Makori starts his days at 6 am where he goes to the mines to acquire various soapstones which he later curves in his shop as he waits for customers. The prices of the sculptures vary from Sh100 to Sh50,000 depending on their shapes, size, and design.Makori revealed that in some cases tourists make special orders at his shop, which earns him hefty profits.He makes an average of Sh30,000 per month, though his earnings slightly vary depending on orders."At times I can make more than Sh30,000 depending on the orders made by customers and tourists," said Makori.
Makori's curio shop which is located in Kisii. [Photo/ Stephen Mwaniki]
Through his job, Makori is able to pay his rent and school fees for his two children who are both in private schools. He says his earnings have also enabled him to set up a saloon for his wife.Makori said competition is the major challenge he faces as the business is very popular in Kisii, which is evident from the number of shops located along the Kisii -Rongo highway."This area has many curio shops which all depend on the few customers that we receive,” he said.Makori challenged his fellow youth who do not have jobs to venture into business, instead of waiting for white collar jobs"Being your own boss is the best feeling ever," said Makori.#jobprofiles